Buying a Car Online

Author Michael Crichton once labeled the Internet as "the Home Shopping Network." The Internet features all kinds of retail opportunities, including car buying, where the smart shopper can save big bucks on an auto purchase.

Let's be fair: There are plenty of excellent car salesmen in the world who can be very helpful when it comes to buying an automobile. But for the purchaser who doesn't want to chance getting hooked up with one of those pushy salesmen, shopping on the Internet is a nice alternative. Not only can the Web save you from a tension-filled shopping experience, it can also help you save a few extra dollars on the purchase price.

Net yourself some savings

It's not surprising that thirty percent of all car purchases are made online. Studies have shown that an auto purchase done online can save you an average of 2 percent. The Internet effectively cuts out the middleman (the car salesman) and his commission, which can put dollars right back in your pocket.

Kick some virtual tires

The computer can aid you in a variety of ways throughout the process. You can use it as an information source. There are countless websites dedicated to reviewing the various models on the market. Read the reviews, and visit the sites of the car manufacturers to get specifics on the makes that you're interested in. When you've narrowed your choices down, visit a car showroom and take your specific model for a test drive.

Different online options

There are several different types of Internet car buying services. These include:

Referral sites: These websites help you comparison shop. You have the opportunity to offer a price, which is then passed on to car dealers who compete for your business. It's a great way to get an excellent price, and can save you lots of legwork and money.

Online dealerships: How about making a visit to a virtual showroom? After you've checked out your car through cyberspace, you can buy it online, and pick it up at the dealership.

Direct services: Why get up off the couch? Direct services allow you to shop online, select the make and model you want, and finish up the deal with a company representative. The car is even delivered right to your door.

Auction websites: Internet auction houses such as eBay let you bid for a car online.

Many choose the Internet as an alternative to pushy car salesmen; others use it to do research and save time comparison-shopping. No matter how you blend it into your car buying process, the odds are in your favor that you'll wind up with a better price. It's why so many car shoppers opt out of dealing with showroom salesmen, and opt in to the convenience and cost-savings of the Internet when buying a car.